So, I've been taking Squigs out the field for a wee jaunt every day so she gets the idea. Initially didn't want to leave her pals understandibly, but a quick kick up the jacksy (my jacksy) from Yard Owner was all that was needed! You see, I was being far too lenient with her and letting her away with murder basically. Because she's so good you forget she's a baby sometimes. So she had started head-butting and trying to run away....All sorted thankfully as she's now got The Terminator for a mum! Well not quite but I am being much firmer now and she's responded really well. You'd think I would have the 'testing the boundaries' issue sorted as I've been through it with my 2 kids already! So we're back on an even keel now ready for our next adventure.....

Big Girl!

Well Squigs is now completely off Mum. She needs to let her milk dry up for the new baba. Its a bit scary now but she seems to be coping alright. I think her poor Mum guessed it was coming because I got stampeded in the field!! (have to say I'd be the same of someone nicked my baby). Shes had her 2 initial flu vaccs now and not looking forward to the next as she went 10 feet in the air with the last!

So, next step is teaching her to come in from the field herself and then trailer training. Not entirely sure of the plan yet. Actually the plan is: there is no plan!

Our situation is a unique in that usually, mares have foals that are weaned at 6 months and sold or if at stud stuck in a field with other weaners. Squiggy is weaned at night and there aren't the facilities to split mum and her during the day. Also mum was getting a bit stressed initially and is a bit prone to colic. So we have kept them together.

Today, however was the first time that I went into the field, took her out and took her away out of sight from mum. I'm really pleased because Squig was great - no worries and mum was only slightly concerned - all in all v laid back (think she's maybe getting sick of a toddler running about). This may seem a small thing to a normal person but A) I'm not normal! and B) They have never really been apart during the day atall.

So farrier on Monday and I'm very hopeful all will go smoothly!!!

Lets Bring You Guys Up To Speed.....

Well I bought Squiggy 2 months ago from the breeder at my livery yard (v handy). I saw her on Day 1, fell head over heels and handed the money over 5 months later! She is now 7 months old and doing really well. I used to have a brilliant horse called Rocky that I did everything with, but had to sell him to make time for my new baby. sniff.

Anyhoo, she is a wee cracker and has been really well handled. She is now weaned off Momma at night and is really independant during the day (mum is in foal again). She does everything and really wants to please. She's now reaching the 'testing mum' stage and reminds me of my 2 year old son! (at least I don't have to change her nappy)

I suppose the object of the diary is to look back on it in 5 years and remember all the special moments (hope there actually are some!) Anyways, ta ta for now and we'll keep you posted....